The vigil continues in a West Virginia mining town, where 13 coal miners have been trapped underground for more than a day and a half.

The head of International Coal Group, Inc., Ben Hatfield, said late Tuesday, "we are clearly in a situation where we need a miracle, but miracles happen."

He said rescue crews are making progress moving into the mine, and have advanced more than 3,000 meters. Mr. Hatfield said he believes the miners fate will be known in the next several hours.

Mr. Hatfield reiterated that air-quality tests showed a higher level of carbon monoxide than humans could tolerate. But he noted the miners' emergency techniques - such as barricading themselves against the gases - may have kept them safe.

The miners have not been heard from since an explosion at the mine early Monday.